With private generation now allowed in Mexico’s electricity sector, Greenwood Energy and Illios have announced a plan to invest US$ 500 million in solar distributed generation projects. The companies expect to develop over 250 MW in new projects by 2017 by installing solar panels on the rooftops of companies and selling them the energy generated at 17 percent to 20 percent below the rates of the state power utility. (OEM/EL Sol de México, 8/22/014)

In Peru, the Ministry of Environment has extended by ten days the deadline for public comments on the proposed National Climate Change Strategy that was first released in draft form on July 24. Previously, local groups had expressed concern at the limited comment period and the strategy’s lack of specific policies or goals. Local groups, in particular, Derecho Ambiente y Recursos Naturales have urged Peru’s government to pass comprehensive climate legislation. Making the connection between human development and climate change in Peru, the organization pointed to the need for the government to address climate change cross-institutionally and with instruments including a National Climate Change Strategy, National Information System on Climate Change Vulnerabilities, and a national climate change report where institutions and the public can access information on progress made on implementing climate change polices and financing. (Ministerio de Ambiente Peru, 8/22/2014; Gestión, 8/22/2014; Inforegion, 8/20/14)

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